Digital Dentistry
What is it?
Movies and books from my childhood portrayed the future as the existence of efficiency and convenience. The wave of the future 𑁋 smart technology 𑁋 would make life safer, faster, and more economical. This imaginary future portrayed in the ’80s is now real. Smartphones, internet technologies, and rapidly progressing virtual reality platforms have changed the world we live in. Some may argue in the wrong direction, however, I feel that by embracing change and understanding these new advancements, we can begin to utilize groundbreaking technologies in a professional and appropriate manner to better serve ourselves and those who rely on us.
Many doctors in the world of dentistry are embracing new technologies available. We have the capabilities to use computers, scanners, cameras, video recordings, 3D printers, and sometimes virtual reality with specific software programs to improve the diagnosis and treatment of oral conditions in one’s mouth. It is a revolution in the industry. In fact, treating oral conditions on a digital platform is in many ways ahead of most healthcare fields.
Digital dentistry allows us to make mistakes on a computer so mistakes do not occur in a patient's mouth.
A well-planned treatment plan that includes digital dentistry may reduce 20-30% of the number of appointments needed. I am proud to say West Wind Dental has fully embraced these new technologies and our efficiency in treatment plans is what differentiates us from other dental providers.
Being able to gather data, design a treatment plan, and deliver outcomes completely through a computer speeds up the process of treatment dramatically. Communication with the lab begins the same day the scan is taken and replaces the dreaded dental impression many people dislike. Dental impressions are now considered the old-fashioned way of designing a treatment plan and delayed lab work from starting for several days following the impression. Furthermore, it often took several weeks before everything was completed.
We use Digital Smile Design (DSD), a design technology that allows us to plan a person’s smile digitally. The DSD program maps the current teeth, gums, lips, and jaw so we can understand how everything is working inside the mouth. Our patients are able to be “co-authors” of their own smiles using this program. We ask them about their goals and desires so we can map out how to achieve those results and plan the procedure. This gives patients the opportunity to “test drive” their new smile before committing to the life-changing experience.
How the process works
1.
- Take high-resolution photos
2.
Analyze the mouth
3.
Map out your new smile
4.
3D print the virtual design
We receive cases back in as little as 3 days ready to deliver to our patients. Here at West Wind Dental, we frequently do our own lab work and can deliver a crown (or several crowns) in the same appointment the procedure starts! Rapid processing of information through our software enables ALL parties involved to have input and express their opinions and/or desires chairside as the data is collected.
West Wind Dental is a leading dentist in Southwest Michigan because we understand the impact of the digital world in dentistry and are bringing safer, faster, and more efficient care to our patients and their families. We want to help you smile with confidence!
Contact us today to talk about how we can transform your smile.
Dr. Andrew Hamilton, DDS, FAGD
Dr. Hamilton is an active member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association (ADA), the Michigan Dental Association (MDA), the Kalamazoo Valley District Dental Society (KVDDS), the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), the International Academy of Facial Aesthetics (IAFA), and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICIO). He also routinely attends courses through the Pikos Institute in Northwest Florida and has achieved fellowship status in the International Dental Implant Association (IDIA) as well as the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD). Dr. Hamilton is a proud alumnus of the Kois Center program in Seattle and is currently serving on the faculty of the Global Dental Implant Academy (GDIA).
With the little spare time left over, you’ll find Dr. Hamilton enjoying his time steelhead and salmon fishing and playing the occasional round of golf.
